Do North American plugs work in Japan?

Yes, Type A and B plugs from the US and Canada fit Japanese outlets directly. You still need to check voltage requirements for high-power devices.

Will my phone charger work in Japan?

Almost certainly yes. Modern phone chargers are rated for 100-240V and work worldwide. Just check the small print on your adapter to confirm.

Should I buy electronics in Japan?

Electronics can be cheaper but may have Japanese-only interfaces. Major purchases like cameras work fine, but avoid appliances you'll use back home due to voltage differences.

How do I get internet on my phone in Japan?

Rent a pocket WiFi device ($6-8/day), buy a tourist SIM card, or use international roaming. Many hotels and all 7-Eleven stores have free WiFi.

How to Pack Electronics and Adapters for Japan

Japan uses Type A and B plugs (same as North America) with 100V electricity. Bring a voltage converter for high-power devices, pack extra USB cables, and consider a portable battery pack since outlets are scarce in public spaces.

Check your device voltage requirements. Look at the power adapter or device label. Devices rated for 100-240V work fine in Japan. Devices rated for only 110-120V (like some hair dryers) need a step-down converter since Japan uses 100V.
Pack the right plug adapters. Bring Type A (two flat prongs) adapters. Type B (with ground pin) also works. If you're from North America, your plugs work directly. Europeans and others need simple Type A adapters—buy 2-3 since they're easy to lose.
Bring a voltage converter for high-power devices. Hair dryers, curling irons, and some electric shavers need a step-down converter (120V to 100V). Buy one rated for at least 1000W. Small electronics like phones and laptops don't need this.
Pack extra charging cables and a power bank. Bring 2 USB-C or Lightning cables—one will break or get lost. Pack a 10,000+ mAh power bank since public outlets are rare outside of cafes and konbini convenience stores.
Download offline maps and translation apps. Download Google Translate with Japanese language pack and Google Maps offline areas for your destinations. WiFi is free but not everywhere, and mobile data can be expensive without a pocket WiFi rental.

Do North American plugs work in Japan?: Yes, Type A and B plugs from the US and Canada fit Japanese outlets directly. You still need to check voltage requirements for high-power devices.
Will my phone charger work in Japan?: Almost certainly yes. Modern phone chargers are rated for 100-240V and work worldwide. Just check the small print on your adapter to confirm.
Should I buy electronics in Japan?: Electronics can be cheaper but may have Japanese-only interfaces. Major purchases like cameras work fine, but avoid appliances you'll use back home due to voltage differences.
How do I get internet on my phone in Japan?: Rent a pocket WiFi device ($6-8/day), buy a tourist SIM card, or use international roaming. Many hotels and all 7-Eleven stores have free WiFi.